Question

select the correct answer.
james was walking down the road when a large animal jumped out in front of him. james was startled and experienced a fast heart rate and heavy breathing. which statement best describes jamess condition in such a situation?
a. the adrenal gland secreted aldosterone, increasing sodium absorption, which increased the heart rate and breathing.
b. the adrenal gland secreted epinephrine, increasing blood pressure, which increased the heart rate and breathing.
c. the adrenal gland secreted androgens, stimulating calcium absorption, which increased the heart rate and breathing.
d. the adrenal gland secreted cortisol, increasing glucose absorption, which increased the heart rate and breathing.

Explanation:

In a stress or startle situation (like James seeing a large animal jump out), the adrenal gland secretes epinephrine (adrenaline). Epinephrine increases blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate as part of the "fight - or - flight" response. Aldosterone (option A) is mainly for sodium and water balance, androgens (option C) are related to sexual development and secondary sexual characteristics, and cortisol (option D) is more related to long - term stress and glucose metabolism for energy, not the immediate startle response.

Answer:

B. The adrenal gland secreted epinephrine, increasing blood pressure, which increased the heart rate and breathing.